Kiran Rao’s Kindling Pictures Supports Bosco Bhandarkar’s ‘Shadow Hill’
In a significant boost for indie cinema, Kiran Rao’s production house, Kindling Pictures, has backed filmmaker Bosco Bhandarkar’s upcoming project, Shadow Hill, at the prestigious WAVES Film Bazaar. The announcement, made during the Goa-based film market, highlights Rao’s continued commitment to nurturing bold, unconventional storytelling.
A Collaboration of Visionary Talents
Kiran Rao, acclaimed for Dhobi Ghat (2010) and Laapataa Ladies (2023), has consistently championed offbeat narratives through Kindling Pictures. Partnering with Bosco Bhandarkar—a rising star in indie filmmaking—signals a push to elevate fresh voices in Indian cinema.
Shadow Hill, a psychological thriller with noir influences, explores identity, memory, and redemption in a remote Himalayan town. The script, praised for its atmospheric tension and deep character arcs, aligns with Bhandarkar’s signature style.
WAVES Film Bazaar: A Platform for Indie Films
The WAVES Film Bazaar, part of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), is a key hub for indie projects seeking funding. Shadow Hill was among 15 films selected for the Co-Production Market, drawing attention for its gripping premise.
Rao’s involvement not only adds credibility but also attracts potential international co-producers. A source noted, “Kiran’s global storytelling instinct ensures ‘Shadow Hill’ will resonate at festivals and beyond.”
Bosco Bhandarkar: A Rising Filmmaker
An FTII alumnus, Bhandarkar gained recognition for his 2021 short The Silent Echo, which premiered at Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival. With Shadow Hill, he steps into feature-length filmmaking, supported by Rao’s expertise.
“This film is about the shadows we carry and chase,” Bhandarkar shared. “Kiran’s belief in the project is exhilarating—it demands bold execution.”
Kindling Pictures: Redefining Indian Cinema
Kindling Pictures has built a reputation for socially relevant, high-quality content, from Laapataa Ladies to The Broken News Season 2. Shadow Hill fits seamlessly into this vision, offering a thrilling yet thought-provoking experience.
Industry experts speculate the film could follow a festival-to-OTT release, similar to indie hits like Gamak Ghar or Aamis, given streaming platforms’ demand for unique narratives.
Production Updates and Next Steps
- Pre-production begins early 2025.
- Casting underway for established and emerging talents.
- Locations likely in Himachal Pradesh or Uttarakhand.
This collaboration between Rao and Bhandarkar exemplifies the risk-taking needed to push indie cinema forward. As anticipation builds, Shadow Hill promises to be a milestone in alternative storytelling.
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